Johnnie Walker Blue Label Elusive Umami Limited Edition Blended Scotch Whisky
Johnnie Walker is a globally renowned brand of Scotch whisky that has become synonymous with quality, craftsmanship and luxury. With a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, Johnnie Walker has established itself as a true icon in the world of whisky. Founded by John Walker in Kilmarnock, Scotland, the brand initially gained popularity for its blended whiskies, which offered a consistent and smooth drinking experience. Over the years, Johnnie Walker has built a reputation for excellence by sourcing the finest malt and grain whiskies from various regions of Scotland. One of the key factors that sets Johnnie Walker apart is its commitment to the art of blending. The master blenders at Johnnie Walker meticulously select and combine different whiskies to create a harmonious blend that embodies the brand's signature style. Each expression in the Johnnie Walker range, from the iconic Johnnie Walker Red Label to the prestigious Johnnie Walker Blue Label, represents a careful balance of flavours and aromas. The Johnnie Walker portfolio boasts a diverse range of whiskies, each with its own distinct character and flavour profile. Whether you prefer the smoky notes of Islay whiskies or the fruity and floral aromas of the Highlands, there is a Johnnie Walker expression to suit every palate. In addition to its exceptional quality, Johnnie Walker is also celebrated for its iconic branding. The striding man logo, representing progress and forward momentum, has become a symbol of the brand's enduring legacy. The brand's distinctive square-shaped bottles and color-coded labels further contribute to its recognizability and prestige. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in a classic cocktail, Johnnie Walker whiskies offer a sensory journey that captures the essence of Scotland's whisky heritage. With its rich flavors, impeccable craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to quality Johnnie Walker continues to be a beloved choice for whisky enthusiasts around the world. Master Blender Dr. Emma Walker and world-renowned, 3 Michelin Star Chef, Kei Kobayashi set out on an epicurean journey of flavour discovery to create a blend that encapsulates the enigmatic taste of umami. The result is an expression of sumptuous taste, complexity and transformative depth. A beautiful balance of savoury sweet qualities. Immerse your palate in an exquisite scotch whisky of subtle richness that captures an essence of deliciousness. This elusive liquid is made of selected casks from inland and coastal distilleries, that are hand-picked at the height of their maturation for their unique umami profile. Only one in 25,000 casks succeeds in bringing this elusive character to life. A beautifully balanced Scotch of sweet and savoury flavours, with notes of blood oranges and red berries, with sweet wood spice, a touch of smoked meat, a hint of salt and pepper with a long, sweet, fruit finish. Best served ice cold with Caviar to unlock the full depth of this sensorial experience.
Yuza Second Edition Single Malt Japanese Whisky ( Bottling)
Yuza Distillery was established in 2018 and to date has released just two single malts (The First Edition has already picked up Gold at the San Francisco International Spirits Challenge) and is well on the way to becoming one of the country’s newest cult distilleries. Sitting at the base of Mount Chōkai in the heart of Japan’s snow country, Yuza is the first Whisky distillery in the country’s Yamagata prefecture. Operational since November 2018, from day one, Masaharu Sasaki and his young team have drawn on the example laid down by Chichibu’s Ichiro Akuto, to perfect an authentic Japanese Whisky that could compete with the world’s best, while remaining true to their sense of monozukuri and producing Whiskies that are uniquely Yuza. It’s early in the piece and yet all the signs — not least the meticulous attention to detail and limited production — point to Yuza becoming one of the brightest stars in Japan’s Whisky firmament. Yuza sits on the flats near the Sea of Japan and enjoys an abundance of soft water from snowmelt and underground springs fed by the sponge-like crevices of lava of the nearby volcano. Chosen for this purity of water and access to the port for their specialised equipment, the area also experiences a massive 40°C average temperature difference over the year. This is projected to super-charge the maturation of the Whiskies in barrel; Masaharu Sasaki estimates eight years maturing in Scotland will equate to just five years in Yamagata. To hone their craft, the Yuza Distillery team partnered from the start with Forsyths, world leaders in distillation equipment. Yuza’s entire distillery team is fresh to Whisky but nurtured and overseen by the Scottish still-makers, providing an essential blank slate to be moulded to a completely new formula, key to Yuza’s dedication to an unfettered style. Facility equipment is centred around five Canadian Douglas Fir washbacks and two stills, including a Glendronach-inspired spirits still with an extended line arm, designed for more surface contact to give cleaner flavours with fewer sulphites. Dedicated only to Single Malt production, this small operation (the distillery covers just 620 square meters) has passed up the opportunity to release any ‘newborn’ expressions. The wash is currently 100% barley from Crisp Maltings with plans to eventually include a local option. Early bottlings point to a non-peated house style, but several heavily-peated batches have also been laid down. While Yuza’s barrel program remains secretive - even when touring the facility, you’ll find all the barrelheads are painted over - the early signs pointed to a preference for ex-Bourbon barrels. Now there is a portion of Sherry cask in the mix and Masaharu Sasaki has spoken of his desire to increase his inventory, picking up stock whenever he can. This cask strength Whisky was carefully selected from barrels from the first season at Yuza Distillery from February to July 2019. It’s estimated, that this selection could contain up to 80% ex-Sherry barrels. As distinct from the First Edition - a very bright expression raised in ex-Bourbon cask - the Second Edition was blended for more complexity, depth and luxurious flavour. This has a very old-world flavour profile (slightly reminiscent of top-shelf Speyside) and the alcohol sits in excellent balance with the complexity of the spirit. There’s a whisper of peat on the nose, with fragrant cereal notes before a progression towards deeper stone fruits and fig. It’s luscious and oily in the mouth, round and slightly earthy with spice and oat notes. It finishes dry with traces of liquorice and a mineral tang.
Akkeshi Taisho Blended Japanese Whisky ( Bottling)
Akkeshi began distilling in 2016, based in the Akkeshi District of Hokkaido, the concept of distilling and maturing single malt in Japan’s northern wilderness traces back to the very first plans of Masataka Taketsuru, a pioneer of the country’s early whisky production. Taisho is the 12th of the 24 Japanese solar terms. The hottest period of the year, this is a celebratory time with many festivals and fireworks. The indigo label is inspired by yukata, the light summer kimono worn during the warmer months. As always, the exact production details are difficult to pin down, but the key malt is 100% from Hokkaido aged in a variety of casks including Mizunara and Bourbon, alongside imported grain purchased as new make and aged completely in-house (nine separate components contributed to the blend) This is signature Akkeshi, with fresh yet savoury/saline peatiness positioned at the forefront. A hot-blooded blend, this changes constantly in the glass and is best without water. Secondary notes of spun sugar and tropical fruit are joined by deep citrus, burnt sage and green almond notes in the mouth. It finishes spicy, salty and long.
Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19 Years Old
Yamazaki 12 Year Old Whisky
Leading Japanese Whisky with aromas of dried fruit and honey. It has a delicate, mellow taste with a lingering woody dry finish. For Scotch drinkers looking for something different.
Compass Box Tree Extravaganza
Inspired by Signature Range, The Spice Tree brings older components and a significant portion of sherry-cask aged malt whisky back to life. It is a spicy, rich and elegant whisky with a depth of flavour and complexity.
GlenAllachie 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Raisins, marzipan, heather and honey, with rich notes of dark cherries, spices and subtle hints of dark chocolate. Fresh vanilla, toffee, butterscotch and spices.
The Shinobu 15 Year Old Pure Malt Japanese Whisky
Deep wood aroma, maltose, nectar, blueberry, Mizunara oak, milk coffee; Oily, ripe fruit, lemon peel, leather, cinnamon, ginger. Finished with a hint of sweet malt with aromas of wooden barrels and a touch of fruity flavor. This is richer in taste than the 10-year-old whisky. The sweet aftertaste is outstanding; Mizunara Barrel brings out different levels of spice flavors. Deep floral woody scent is also full of vitality.
Nikka Miyagikyo Peated Single Malt Japanese Whisky
Retaining the elegant warmth of Miyagikyo malt, peat brings out a mellow sweetness and more solid body. Nikka says it has the sweetness of raisins and dry cherries, and a light yet firm peatiness.
The Shin 15 Year Old Malt Whisky Mizunara Oak Finish
The Shin Malt Mizunara Whisky Range are distilled and created with the serious Whisky drinker in mind.At 48% ABV and Gift Boxed a perfect edition for Christmas. A newcomer on the world stage of Japanese whiskies, The Shin Malt Whisky ranges are making headway already on the spirit awards front. The big brother of the awarded and acclaimed Shinobu whisky ranges, the master blended distiller Mr Ken Usama has completed a beautiful range of well made, balanced and delicious whiskies.Tasting Notes:Deep wood aroma, maltose, nectar, blueberry, Mizunara oak, milk coffee; oily, ripe fruit, lemon peel, leather, cinnamon, ginger; Finished with a hint of sweet malt with aromas of wooden barrels and a touch of fruity flavour. The sweet aftertaste is outstanding! The barrel age brings out different levels of spice and tertiary characteristics. The nose is abundant with a deep floral woody scent and elegant oak.